Simplifying the Complex: Math, CompSci, Physics Tutor

Joshua P.

Hello! My name is Josh and I live in the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest. In May 2023, I graduated from University of Southern California (USC) with a Master's in Computer Science (3.9/4.0 GPA). My bachelors degree is from Vanderbilt University where I graduated Summa Cum Laude majoring in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics. Math has been my most beloved subject since pre-K and I love solving math puzzles for fun!

I served as a teaching assistant for two years at USC. My students often felt overwhelmed and frustrated; they expressed gratitude for the decompressing and inviting environment I cultivated as well as my creative and humanizing assignments. One example was to integrate personal mindfulness practices to simplify a complex problem within the domain of Artificial Intelligence --- Markov Decision Processes (MDPs). One student reflected, “I have to say it is so far the best way for me to understand the MDP since I have the chance to personally participate in the process”.

As a tutor, I bring a similar intention and approach. I identify a student’s strengths, growth edges, and learning style. I use relevant applications to bring the subject to life, often employing mindfulness practices to help students relax and focus. An algebra student reflected that after just a week, he felt less stressed and more confident in his ability to pass a test on factoring polynomials, a subject with which he had struggled. Beyond algebra, my math proficiency includes first-year and multivariate calculus, differential equations, topology, real & complex analysis, and number theory. I am qualified to tutor high school and college level physics courses. In the realm of computer science, I love teaching Python, data structures, logic & discrete math, topics in AI, and cryptography. I welcome students from elementary school through lifelong learners and look forward to working with you!